Rosemary, an aromatic herb is native to the Mediterranean region and belongs to the mint family. The use of rosemary is not new and dates back to ancient times. Rosemary has been used for religious purposes, for culinary purposes and even for its medicinal properties. Rosemary oil can be extracted from the leaves of rosemary herb through the process of steam distillation. Rosemary oil has many health benefits. It strengthens the overall immune system. Rosemary oil is also used as an essential oil in aromatherapy and is known to stimulate the brain and the nerves. Rosemary oil has a woody and balsamic aroma which makes it one of the most used oils for culinary purposes. The various health benefiting properties of rosemary oil come from the phytonutrients, anti-oxidants, and the healthy acids that it contains.
Health Benefits of Rosemary Oil
- Promotes digestive health: Rosemary oil is known to aid digestion and keep the digestive system problems at bay. It stimulates the production of bile which is an essential acid that aids in digestion. Rosemary oil also helps to overcome the symptoms of dyspepsia and increase the appetite. It helps to keep problems related to the digestive system like bloating, flatulence, indigestion, constipation and stomach cramps at bay. The intake of rosemary oil also improves the absorption of nutrients from food.
- Promotes hair health: Rosemary oil helps to promote the health of the hair. The use of rosemary oil stimulates the follicles of the hair which make the hair grow stronger and longer. Rosemary oil also slows down the premature graying of hair. It also prevents hair loss thus preventing baldness. Rosemary oil is also an effective remedy for dandruff. Rosemary oil when applied helps to overcome problems like itchy scalp and other types of scalp infections.
- Promotes dental health: Rosemary oil is a natural disinfectant. It can be used as a mouthwash for overcoming the problem of bad breath. Rosemary oil helps to remove bacteria from the mouth thereby preventing dental problems like gingivitis, cavities, and plaque.
- Promotes skin health: Rosemary oil helps to promote skin health. Rosemary oil has several anti-bacterial, anti-microbial and antiseptic properties that help to keep several skin disorders at bay. The application of rosemary oil eliminates eczema, dermatitis, acne and also helps to treat oily skin. The topical application of rosemary oil also helps to tone the skin and even helps to keep the skin hydrated. The regular application of rosemary oil helps to give the skin a glow and keep it healthy.
- Stimulates mental activity: Rosemary oil acts as a tonic for the brain and the nerves. Rosemary oil stimulates mental activity and is a good remedy for depression, mental fatigue, and forgetfulness. Rosemary oil is also an effective treatment for slowing down the onset of Alzheimer’s disease because it is known to boost neural activity. Rosemary oil is also known to relax a tired brain because of its stimulating and rich aroma.
- Helps in stress relief: Rosemary oil also helps to reduce stress and is an effective stress management remedy. Rosemary oil reduces the level of cortisol in the saliva. Cortisol is a stress hormone which is released during flight or fight situation. The excess levels of cortisol in the blood stream lead to chronic stress. Rosemary oil by lowering the cortisol levels in the bloodstream reduces stress.
- Helps in boosting the immune system: Rosemary oil helps to boost the immune system. Rosemary oil contains anti-oxidants that help to fight free radicals that lead to cell damage and cause various diseases. The use of rosemary oil boosts the immune system and makes it stronger to fight against several diseases as well as infections. Rosemary oil can also help to strengthen the immune system to fight diseases like cancer and other heart diseases.
- Help to relieve pain: Rosemary oil helps to relieve pain. Massaging with rosemary oil helps to relieve pain associated with muscles and arthritis. Rosemary oil can also be used to relieve headaches and pains related to joints and sprains. Rosemary oil is an effective remedy for rheumatism.
- Prevents respiratory problems: Rosemary oil can be used as an effective remedy for colds, sore throats and several other allergies. Rosemary oil is anti-spasmodic and can also be used to prevent bronchial asthma.
For more information on Rosemary oil, click here.